Woman’s Waistcoat in Sirdar Dapple DK - 8068 - Downloadable PDF

Woman's Waistcoat in Sirdar Dapple DK – Pattern 8068

This intermediate-level knitting pattern from Sirdar produces a classic woman's waistcoat worked in the brand's popular Dapple DK yarn. Designed with an inclusive size range spanning 81/86 cm to 132/137 cm (32/34 in to 52/54 in) bust, the pattern is a versatile wardrobe staple that suits a wide variety of body types. The finished garment features a neat, tailored silhouette with actual measurements ranging from 89 cm to 140 cm and a full length of 60 cm to 73 cm depending on the size chosen.

What Is Being Made

The finished project is a sleeveless waistcoat — a timeless layering piece that can be worn over shirts, blouses, or knitwear for both casual and smart-casual occasions. With its button fastening (requiring 3 buttons), the waistcoat has a structured, polished finish that makes it suitable for a range of styling options. The pattern is offered as a downloadable PDF, making it immediately accessible after purchase.

Yarn and Materials

The pattern is written specifically for Sirdar Dapple DK in shade 085, a variegated DK-weight yarn that adds subtle tonal interest to the fabric without the need for complex colourwork. The quantity required ranges from 2 to 4 balls of 100g depending on the size being knitted. Sirdar notes that this pattern is also suitable for a number of alternative yarns from their range, including:

• Country Style DK
• Crofter DK
• Soukie DK
• Beachcomber DK
• Harrap Tweed DK
• Amalfi DK
• Toscana DK
• Sirdar No.1 DK
• Cotton DK
• Cotton Prints DK

Please note that yarn amounts may vary when substituting an alternative yarn, so it is advisable to check requirements carefully before purchasing.

In addition to yarn, knitters will need:

• 1 pair of 4mm (UK8 / USA6) knitting needles — used for the main body of the waistcoat
• 1 pair of 3¼mm (UK10 / USA3) knitting needles — typically used for ribbed or neater edging sections
• 3 buttons for the front fastening

Tension

Achieving the correct tension is essential for this pattern. The specified tension is 22 stitches and 28 rows to 10 cm (4 in) measured over stocking stitch using 4mm needles. Knitters are encouraged to work a tension swatch before beginning and to adjust needle size as needed to achieve the correct gauge, as this directly affects the finished measurements of the garment.

Techniques and Stitches Used

This pattern is rated as intermediate in difficulty, making it well suited to knitters who have moved beyond the basics and are comfortable with shaping and garment construction. Key techniques and stitches involved include:

• Stocking stitch — the primary stitch used throughout the main body panels, creating a smooth, classic knitted fabric
• Rib stitch — typically used for borders, neckbands, and armhole edgings to provide elasticity and a neat finish
• Knit and purl stitches — the fundamental building blocks of both stocking stitch and rib patterns
• Armhole shaping — decreasing stitches to create neat, fitted armhole openings appropriate for a sleeveless design
• Neckline shaping — working decreases to form a t